Pneumaturia

A medical condition involving the passage of gas in urine

Pneumaturia

CT scan showing emphysematous cystitis, a potential cause of pneumaturia.

Pneumaturia is a medical condition characterized by the presence of gas in the urine. It is often a symptom of an underlying condition rather than a disease itself. The gas can be introduced into the urinary tract through various mechanisms, including infections, fistulas, or medical procedures.

Causes

Pneumaturia can result from several different causes, including:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by gas-forming organisms, such as certain strains of Escherichia coli.
• Fistulas between the urinary tract and the gastrointestinal tract, such as a colovesical fistula, which can occur due to conditions like diverticulitis or Crohn's disease.
• Recent surgery or catheterization that introduces air into the bladder.
• Rarely, emphysematous cystitis, a severe infection of the bladder wall with gas formation, as shown in the accompanying CT image.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of pneumaturia typically involves:

• A detailed medical history and physical examination.
• Urinalysis to detect the presence of gas bubbles in the urine.
• Imaging studies such as CT scans or ultrasound to identify any underlying anatomical abnormalities or infections.
• Cystoscopy may be performed to directly visualize the bladder and identify any fistulas or lesions.

Treatment

The treatment of pneumaturia depends on the underlying cause:

• For infections, appropriate antibiotic therapy is administered based on the causative organism.
• Surgical intervention may be necessary to repair fistulas or remove obstructions.
• Management of any underlying conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, is crucial to prevent recurrence.

Prognosis

The prognosis for pneumaturia varies depending on the underlying cause. Infections can often be treated successfully with antibiotics, while fistulas may require surgical correction. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications.

Related pages

• Urinary tract infection
• Fistula
• Emphysematous cystitis
• Diverticulitis
• Crohn's disease